In the midst of the third and final wave of the Faith In Our Future campaign, campaign leaders are hoping for what marathoners seek as they near the end of their 26.2 mile race.

“We’re looking for momentum and a strong finish, said Debra Lethlean, campaign director.

The $87.5 million pledged to the Faith In Our Future Trust by more than 41,000 people represents 83 percent of the campaign’s $105 million goal – a goal that Bishop William P. Callahan, chair of the board of trustees for the trust, believes is attainable.

“We have $20 million to go. Twenty million is still doable, even in this economy. The situation with Faith In Our Future, given the sense of generosity of the people of God, will continue to manifest itself,” he said. “I’m not saying we’re going to do it tomorrow. This is going to take some time, but I believe that the strong sense of stewardship that we have developed within the church of southeastern Wisconsin will help us be successful.”

Lethlean noted that the transition from Archbishop Timothy Dolan as the most visible and vocal leader of the campaign to Bishop Callahan has gone smoothly due to the latter’s enthusiasm for and knowledge of what was needed to make the campaign successful.

“Bishop Callahan assumed leadership of the campaign without a moment’s hesitation. He’s been conducting top prospect visits, helping our parishes with their solicitations and donor gatherings, and speaking in our parishes during weekend liturgies. We haven’t missed a beat,” she said.

Lethlean added that Bishop Richard Sklba’s articles on the principles of biblical stewardship inspired Catholics and helped them understand what it means to embrace stewardship in their lives.

“It’s been an all-out effort and an awesome experience working with the bishops and a strong Faith In Our Future campaign steering committee chaired by Ed and Diane Zore, and with our pastors and thousands of parish volunteers who embraced the campaign’s goals,” said Lethlean, noting that O’Meara Ferguson’s lead campaign consultants provided sound counsel that ensured the campaign launched strongly in 2007 …